I started a new endeavor recently when I got my hands on an old piece of scrap steel and decided to try my hand at knife making. I have access to a few tools, but it has mostly been working by hand with bench grinders and files. I researched a good bit on the internet before diving in, but as with most things Im being reminded experience is the best teacher. I meant to take more pictures to document my progress, but I kept forgetting as I moved from one phase to the next, so all Ive got is my original sketches on the scrap and where Im up to now. For my design, I compiled some of my favorite features of knives I either have already or have admired. I had enough steel to cut out two blanks, which I then shaped using the bench grinder and power sanders. I have been working on shaping the cutting edges lately, and have been working towards a uniform 3/4 contour (quite the challenge going free-hand/hand files!) I know using a jig of some sort would make the uniformity much easier, but Im actually enjoying the challenge of seeing how precise I can get without. My next major challenge is going to be the heat-treating process. I dont have a forge available, but I have been researching budget alternatives or considering improvising with a charcoal fire and some type of blower. I know several of you guys are experienced bladesmiths, so any advice or comments (including Youre doing it wrong!) :P is welcome!
Posted on: Sun, 25 Jan 2015 04:08:06 +0000
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